Burning season set to close

All jurisdictions in the Sisters Country will enter fire season and no longer allow outdoor burning of debris and agricultural burns as of June 19 at dusk.

"By coordinating the date for the close of burning among all fire agencies, there is no confusion across the county regarding the regulation," said Redmond Fire Chief Tim Moor of the Central Oregon Fire Chief's Association (COFCA). "With the days getting warmer, fuels are drying out and the potential for escaped debris burns to become a wildfire hazard is greatly increased."

The danger was illustrated on Tuesday, June 7 when an escaped debris fire burned 3/4-acre off Three Creek Road. Multiple agencies responded and quickly doused the fire.

Sisters Fire Marshal Dave Wheeler noted that it's easy to be complacent about fire danger when it's been so wet in the Sisters Country. However, he noted, "the problem is, it only takes a day of wind and nice weather, and the grass and the fine fuels dry out - and that's what carries the fire."

The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management will continue with planned burning projects on federal lands in the cooler, higher elevations away from communities and structures.

All agencies will continue to monitor weather and fuels conditions throughout the summer and anticipate the opening of burn season in late fall.

COFCA reminds residents in Deschutes County to be aware of the increased risk of potential wildfire, especially when operating tools or ATVs that can throw sparks and ignite nearby brush and grass.

"Keeping grass and weeds cut low and generally preparing your home for wildfire will also help prevent losses from fires this summer," said Chief Moor.

Residents are strongly encouraged to contact their local fire protection agencies for additional burning information and specifics regarding any regulations on the use of chain saws, warming fires, BBQs or ATVs. For more information about preparing your home for wildfires, visit http://www.firefree.org or http://www.firewise.org.